10 Best Places to Go Apple Picking in the U.S.

Ah, fall apple picking. The season of pumpkin spice everything, cozy sweaters, and, of course, the obligatory trip to an apple orchard. Your Instagram feed is about to be flooded with flannel-clad couples holding up shiny red apples, probably with a caption like “Fall so hard.” And while the whole ritual can feel a bit basic, there’s something genuinely enjoyable about getting out there, breathing in the crisp air, and pretending to be a farmer for a day.

But let’s be real: not all apple orchards are created equal. Some are overpriced tourist traps, and others are just… well, sad little farms with a few lonely trees. You’re not just there for apple picking; you’re there for the experience. You want the hayrides, the corn mazes, the cider donuts that make you question all your life choices. So, to save you from a disappointing weekend, here’s a rundown of the best spots for apple-picking across the U.S. that are actually worth the hype.

Prime Apple-Picking Spots in the Northeast

If you live anywhere on the East Coast, you’re in luck. This region takes its autumn traditions very seriously.

Hunterdon County, New Jersey: Just a 90-minute drive from the chaos of NYC and Philadelphia lies Hunterdon County. It’s the perfect escape, and home to Melick’s Town Farm. This place is huge, with over 20,000 apple trees, so you won’t have to fight someone for the last decent Honeycrisp. They also make their own hard cider, which is a definite plus.

Western Massachusetts: Nestled in the Berkshires, this area is basically a postcard for fall. Head to Hilltop Orchards for over 30 apple varieties and some seriously stunning views. It’s the kind of place where you can pick your apples, then immediately reward yourself with a visit to their on-site winery. Because what’s better than apple picking? Apple picking with wine.

Dutchess County, New York: The Hudson Valley is another fall paradise. Fishkill Farms has been growing apples for over a century, so they know what they’re doing. They host Harvest Festival Weekends with live music and hayrides, making it a full-day affair. And their cider donuts? Legendary.

Must-Visit Apple Orchards in the Midwest

Don’t sleep on the Midwest when it comes to fall festivities. They bring their A-game.

Southeast Michigan: Michigan is the third-largest apple producer in the country, so you know they have some solid options. Blake Farms is more than just an orchard; it’s practically a fall-themed amusement park with a petting zoo and corn maze. And for the adults, their hard cider selection is top-notch.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Region, Minnesota: You don’t have to venture far from the city to find great apple picking. Aamodt’s Apple Farm has been around since 1848 and offers everything from goat farms to hot air balloon rides. Yes, you read that right. Go pick some apples and then see the fall foliage from a freaking hot air balloon. It doesn’t get more extra than that.

Top Apple-Picking Destinations on the West Coast

The West Coast might be known for its beaches, but it has some hidden gems for apple enthusiasts, too.

Portland Metropolitan Area, Oregon: A 90-minute drive from Portland will get you to Mt. View Orchards, where you can pick from 125 different apple varieties while enjoying panoramic views of Mt. Hood. It’s almost too picturesque. They also have a brewery and tasting room, so you can make a whole day of it.

Sonoma County, California: Wine country isn’t just for grapes. EARTHseed Farm is a 14-acre, solar-powered farm where you can pick apples, raspberries, and Asian pears. It’s a more low-key, sustainable vibe if you’re trying to avoid the massive crowds.

Where to Go for Apple Picking in the South

The South brings its own charm to the apple-picking season.

Loudoun County, Virginia: Known as D.C.’s Wine Country, Loudoun County is also a prime spot for fall fun. Great Country Farms hosts an Apple Harvest Month in September, complete with fresh-pressed cider, apple cider donuts, and a 1.5-acre corn maze.

Hendersonville, North Carolina: Just south of Asheville, Hendersonville is a city that loves its apples. Justus Orchards has dozens of varieties and all the festive fall treats you could want, from fried apple pies to cider slushies. They also have an “apple canyon,” which sounds like something out of a fairy tale.

So, there you have it. Whether you’re in it for the ‘gram, the cider donuts, or, you know, the actual apples, these spots won’t let you down. Just try not to be too basic about it. Or do. It’s fall, after all.